Staff and budget cuts at local offices of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), are degrading weather forecasts and adding chaos to New England's commercial fisheries. Proposed additional cuts could throw fisheries,

NOAA announced an above-average hurricane season, with 13 to 19 named storms, of which six to 10 will become hurricanes and three to five will be major ones. Insurers have already seen claims costs soar in 2025 from California wildfire damage and severe storms across the Midwest.

WPTV is navigating the impacts you may face with the accuracy of forecasts, as organizations like NOAA have faced staffing shortages and possibly funding cuts.

Renowned Texas meteorologist reacting to proposed NOAA budget cuts: “I'm hoping there are a lot of clear days ahead.”

Iowa experts say that the future of weather forecasting research and the National Weather Service's operations are at risk under federal funding cuts.

Sweeping cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration could imperil Florida’s multibillion-dollar fishing industry and coastal economy, industry leaders and scientists warn — a dire prospect for a region built on tourism, seafood and the health of its waters.

NOAA has not yet announced a replacement for the database, but officials say they remain committed to providing reliable data on weather and climate events. Other NOAA tools, such as storm trackers and satellite imaging systems, remain active and operational.

The results are worse, too, including larger fish kills and greater losses of marine animals like dolphins, manatees and seabirds. Vulnerable human populations also experience more widespread and significant respiratory health concerns.

There have been questions about the potential impact of staffing cuts at some offices of the National Weather Service.